What does a machine operator do?
Machine operators are responsible for managing the machines assigned to them. They set up, install, operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and ensure quality output. Machine operators must know the inner workings of the machine such that they can easily address any problems that may arise. They must ensure that all components of the machine are working well. They perform maintenance routine checks to ensure that the machine is working at the most efficient capacity, is well-stocked with needed materials, and producing the best output. Machine operators are also responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and sanitation of the machine.
Machine operator responsibilities
Here are examples of responsibilities from real machine operator resumes:
- Conduct preventative maintenance checks on industrial brake manufacturing machines and forklifts.
- Follow company and safety procedures using industrial chemicals and PPE to efficiently clean and sanitize all equipment.
- Operate forklift and bobcat as needed.
- Run a line in a PVC pipe production plant.
- Operate machinery including forklift, bobcat and various power tools.
- Provide leadership to others through example and sharing of knowledge/skill.
- Provide leadership and support to reach efficiency and productivity goals.
- Program PLC's according to setup manuals and standard work.
- Operate and maintain SMT machine as well as printer and oven.
- Place supply package of yarn, thread and selvage on spindles.
- Machine operator make right hand and left hand parts for Chrysler seat belts
- Operate a manufacturing PVC line, size and cut each piece to specifications.
- Band steel coils, operate overhead crane, band steel coils, tag finish product, make pallets.
- Operate forklifts and other heavy machinery safely.
- Certify as an overhead crane operator and forklift operator.
Machine operator skills and personality traits
We calculated that 11% of Machine Operators are proficient in Basic Math, CNC, and Math. They’re also known for soft skills such as Color vision, Math skills, and Technical skills.
We break down the percentage of Machine Operators that have these skills listed on their resume here:
- Basic Math, 11%
Measured dimensions accurately using micrometers, calipers, and basic mathematical skills.
- CNC, 9%
Operated various CNC machine Milled drill machined parts to specification
- Math, 9%
general math, use of all cleaning devices,and procedures.
- Safety Procedures, 8%
Created or enhanced new and existing safety procedures to improve quality and safe operating practices in the manufacturing facility.
- Machine Operation, 6%
Set thermostat to regulate temperature and observed machine operation and examined products ejected by machines to determine whether products meet specifications.
- Quality Standards, 5%
Examined final products to verify conformance to quality standards and counted finished products to determine complete product orders.
"basic math," "cnc," and "math" are among the most common skills that machine operators use at work. You can find even more machine operator responsibilities below, including:
Color vision. The most essential soft skill for a machine operator to carry out their responsibilities is color vision. This skill is important for the role because "assemblers and fabricators who make electrical and electronic products must distinguish different colors, because the wires they often work with are color coded." Additionally, a machine operator resume shows how their duties depend on color vision: "completed daily production reports and reported production concerns to supervision. "
Technical skills. Another skill that relates to the job responsibilities of machine operators is technical skills. This skill is critical to many everyday machine operator duties, as "assemblers and fabricators must understand technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics for manufacturing a range of products and machines." This example from a resume shows how this skill is used: "provided technical maintenance and troubleshooting of production lines, filing daily technical and production reports. "
Dexterity. machine operator responsibilities often require "dexterity." The duties that rely on this skill are shown by the fact that "assemblers and fabricators should have a steady hand and good hand–eye coordination, as they must grasp, manipulate, and assemble parts and components that are often very small." This resume example shows what machine operators do with dexterity on a typical day: "operated a forklift proficiently while following all safety guidelines and procedures. "
Physical strength. A commonly-found skill in machine operator job descriptions, "physical strength" is essential to what machine operators do. Machine operator responsibilities rely on this skill because "assemblers and fabricators must be able to lift heavy components or pieces of machinery." You can also see how machine operator duties rely on physical strength in this resume example: "assure quality per iso standards while operating in a fast pace and physically demanding environment. "
Mechanical skills. Lastly, "mechanical skills" is an important element of what a machine operator does. Machine operator responsibilities require this skill because "assemblers and fabricators must have a working knowledge of basic machinery to use programmable motion-control devices, computers, and robots on the factory floor." This resume example highlights how machine operator duties rely on this skill: "set up and operated mechanical punch press and various assembly machines"
The three companies that hire the most machine operators are:
- Aerotek467 machine operators jobs
- Randstad North America, Inc.321 machine operators jobs
- Sheridan320 machine operators jobs
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Compare different machine operators
Machine operator vs. Assembly operator
In a manufacturing setting, an assembly operator is in charge of assembling materials using hands or tools. Their responsibilities include following assembly guidelines, packing items in containers and boxes, operating tools and equipment, and developing strategies to optimize operations. They may also perform regular maintenance checks on machines and equipment to maintain a safe and efficient work environment. Furthermore, it is essential to observe an active communication line with co-workers, coordinating for a structured and smooth workflow.
While similarities exist, there are also some differences between machine operators and assembly operator. For instance, machine operator responsibilities require skills such as "safety rules," "tape measure," "product quality," and "aided design." Whereas a assembly operator is skilled in "hand tools," "quality checks," "troubleshoot," and "assembly operations." This is part of what separates the two careers.
Assembly operators earn the highest salaries when working in the automotive industry, with an average yearly salary of $34,880. On the other hand, machine operators are paid more in the automotive industry with an average salary of $37,558.The education levels that assembly operators earn slightly differ from machine operators. In particular, assembly operators are 0.8% more likely to graduate with a Master's Degree than a machine operator. Additionally, they're 0.1% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.Machine operator vs. Machine operator/forklift operator
A machine operator/forklift operator is responsible for operating industrial trucks to move merchandise around the warehouse facilities and other assigned areas. Machine operators/forklift operators also assist with inventory tasks by scanning orders and ensuring the correct merchandise for shipment. They manage the stability of the vehicles, ensuring its efficiency and optimization during operations, performing engine repairs for any inconsistencies to avoid delays on deliveries. A machine operator/forklift operator should strictly follow the safety protocols of the business, as well as have knowledge of the mechanical industry.
Each career also uses different skills, according to real machine operator resumes. While machine operator responsibilities can utilize skills like "basic math," "math," "product quality," and "production equipment," machine operator/forklift operators use skills like "drive forklift," "load trucks," "electric pallet jack," and "quality checks."
On average, machine operator/forklift operators earn a lower salary than machine operators. Some industries support higher salaries in each profession. Interestingly enough, machine operator/forklift operators earn the most pay in the automotive industry with an average salary of $36,711. Whereas machine operators have higher pay in the automotive industry, with an average salary of $37,558.machine operator/forklift operators earn similar levels of education than machine operators in general. They're 0.2% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree and 0.1% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.Machine operator vs. Production operator
A production operator is responsible for handling and monitoring manufacturing machines in a factory or similar establishment, ensuring that everything is running smoothly and according to schedule. Aside from assisting with the processing and packaging of goods, a production operator must also conduct necessary inspections to the machine or equipment that they are using to make sure that it is in good condition and is safe to use. Should there be any issues or concerns regarding safety, it is essential to notify a supervisor right away.
The required skills of the two careers differ considerably. For example, machine operators are more likely to have skills like "tape measure," "product quality," "aided design," and "quality control checks." But a production operator is more likely to have skills like "quality checks," "hand tools," "customer service," and "data entry."
Production operators make a very good living in the manufacturing industry with an average annual salary of $37,865. On the other hand, machine operators are paid the highest salary in the automotive industry, with average annual pay of $37,558.When it comes to education, production operators tend to earn similar degree levels compared to machine operators. In fact, they're 1.0% more likely to earn a Master's Degree, and 0.0% more likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.Machine operator vs. Manufacturing operator
A manufacturing operator is primarily responsible for overseeing and controlling the performance of machines and equipment, ensuring efficiency and smooth workflow. Their responsibilities revolve around monitoring production operations, conducting regular maintenance checks to ensure the accuracy and quality of machinery, performing corrective measures and adjustments as needed, and assessing the quality of finished products, all while adhering to deadlines and goals. Furthermore, it is vital to comply with the company's safety policies and regulations to maintain a safe and healthy work environment for everyone.
Types of machine operator
Updated January 8, 2025
